The humanitarian mission to free the North is proceeding according
to military strategy - Secretary Defence

The Humanitarian mission to free the Northern Province
is proceeding according to the strategies devised by the military stated
the Defence Secretary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa during the media briefing
held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Hall today (28). The
Defence Secretary stated that the key issue raised during the conference
held with the diplomats was the Internally Displaced Persons. According
to Government statistics around 31713 families are displaced in
Kilinochchi alone. These families have fled from combat areas in
Mulatheive.

He clarified that the Security Forces continue to
consolidate their positions in the North. There are no shortages of food
and other essential commodities for those displaced in those area.
Government sources have clarified that the mechanism which controls the
supply of food and medicine to those areas are functioning perfectly.

Defence Secretary however stated that he hoped all
those who have been displaced in the conflict would be able to report to
Vavuniya soon as all facilities for them will be provided there. A
campaign will be launched to alert the civilians in uncleared area to
report to Vavuniya. Immediate relocation of the IDP's will be commenced
afterwards.

The other issue raised by the International Community
was the civilian casualties. Defence Secretary stated that the security
forces have been instructed to carry out operations with zero civilian
casualties. Even pro LTTE Medias have not been able to prove civilian
casualties he confirmed. Even buildings have not been damaged he stated
this is to ensure that there is zero civilian casualties.

Responding to a question on rehabilitation he stated
that any terrorist who gives up arms is welcome as a normal citizen of
the country. He also stated that many Vocational Training Institutions
have been set up in the north and East area.

He also stated that our military, one of the best
militaries in the world is paving the way for a political solution. The
ultimate solution is a political one and the military is trying to
create an environment where a political solution can be implemented.